Financial Modeler's Corner podcast

50:16

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Ian Schnoor, Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute. The conversation focuses on the growing role of financial modeling in uncertain markets, the expanding reach of FMI, and the importance of structure, clarity, and accreditation in building better business decisions. Ian shares practical insights from his global work, recent collaborations, and lessons from building multiple businesses. Ian Schnoor is the Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the only organization offering globally recognized financial modeling accreditation. He founded The Marquee Group, which was acquired by Training the Street in 2023. Ian has trained thousands of professionals in modeling, valuation, and Excel. He teaches at Queen’s University, holds a CFA charter, and began his career in investment banking with Citigroup and BMO. He’s focused on raising the standard of modeling across the world through education and certification. Expect to Learn: Why financial modeling is essential during market volatility How FMI is earning global recognition from top firms The impact of adding financial modeling to the CFA program Insights from FMI’s expansion into China and India Three principles for building a successful business A creative use of Excel to solve a real-world inventory challenge Here are a few quotes from the episode: “A good model helps you ask the right ‘what if’ questions, not deliver perfect answers.” - Ian Schnoor “The true purpose of a model is to give decision-makers confidence in uncertain times.” - Ian Schnoor “Getting the AFM means you’ve shown up, done the work, and proved your skills under pressure.” - Ian Schnoor Ian Schnoor shared powerful insights on the role of modeling in today’s uncertain world. He emphasized clarity, structure, and the value of accreditation in building trust and better decisions. His global work is helping elevate modeling into a true professional discipline. A strong reminder that great models lead to great leadership. Follow Ian Schnoor: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/?originalSubdomain=ca Website - https://fminstitute.com/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:27] - Welcome back to the Episode [04:04] - Financial modeling during market volatility [08:01] - Updates from FMI and its global growth [11:47] - Accreditation and why it matters [16:41] - Partnerships in China and India [22:02] - Excel World Cup and the global community [24:22] - CFA Institute collaboration [28:23] - Global expansion stories [32:34] - Three principles for business success [37:23] - Real-life Excel project: Baby blanket logistics [42:48] - Rapid-fire: tools and trends in modeling [47:37] - Final advice for modelers…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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How Startup Founders Can Build Investor Ready Models to Win VC Trust with Arta Ramaj 46:18

13 days ago46:18

46:18

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner , host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Arta Ramaj, co-founder of 360 Finance, for a discussion into the real-world challenges and nuances of financial modeling. Arta shares her journey from a geography degree to a thriving career in finance and entrepreneurship. Together, they explore the art and science of building robust financial models, the entrepreneurial mindset, and the evolving role of finance as a strategic business partner. Arta Ramaj is the co-founder of 360 Finance, a boutique consultancy specializing in financial modeling, FP&A, and finance system implementations for private equity and venture-backed companies. With a background in private equity and a passion for bridging financial data with strategic execution, Arta brings a unique entrepreneurial perspective to the finance world. She’s dedicated to creating investor-ready financial solutions and scaling businesses through dynamic, data-driven insights. Expect to Learn: How Arta transitioned from studying geography to founding a financial consulting firm. The critical importance of structure and design in financial modeling. Key strategies for building "investor-ready" financial models. The role of soft skills and storytelling in becoming a great finance business partner. Why simplifying assumptions and focusing on key metrics are essential for early-stage modeling success. Here are a few quotes from the episode: “If you're scaling and your finance function isn't solid, you're really scaling on shaky foundations." - Arta Ramaj ”Credibility and clarity are the north stars for building investor-ready financial models." - Arta Ramaj “Modeling for a startup is often more about flexibility and storytelling than creating a perfect spreadsheet." - Arta Ramaj Arta Ramaj gave us a fascinating look into the world of financial modeling for startups and private equity-backed businesses, showing how structure, clarity, and strategic insight shape high-impact financial decision-making. Her experiences revealed how finance principles, business partnering skills, and storytelling all intersect to build trust with investors and stakeholders. From building investor-ready models to navigating the entrepreneurial journey, this episode showcased the critical role financial modelers play in driving growth, strategic planning, and value creation. Follow Arta: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/artaramaj/ Website - https://www.three6ixtyfinance.com Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:04] - Welcome to the Episode [03:21] - Horror Financial Model Story [07:02] - From Geography to Finance [11:33] - Love for FP&A and Business [14:26] - Starting 360 Finance [17:46] - Why Finance Gets Overlooked [23:32] - Building Investor-Ready Models [29:27] - The Financial Modeler as a Therapist [35:14] - Fun with Excel and Wedding Modeling [38:20] - Career Advice and Final Tips…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Litigation Risk Modeling for Finance Professionals with David Perla 45:15

20 days ago45:15

45:15

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes David Perla, Vice Chair of Burford Capital and a pioneering voice in the legal finance industry. David discusses how financial modeling plays a central role in evaluating and funding high-stakes litigation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how his team monetizes legal risk with structured financial strategies. From managing long litigation timelines to leveraging Monte Carlo simulations and AI tools, David shares how Burford builds sophisticated models to guide investment decisions and mitigate risk. David Perla has an extraordinary background at the intersection of law, entrepreneurship, and finance. He’s a former president of Bloomberg Law, co-founder of legal outsourcing pioneer Pangea3 (acquired by Thomson Reuters), and was named a top 50 innovator by The American Lawyer . At Burford Capital, David is helping reshape how the legal world accesses and deploys capital. Expect to Learn: What legal finance actually is and how it works How Burford structures deals and evaluates legal risk The modeling techniques used to forecast legal outcomes Why Monte Carlo simulations are central to their underwriting process How AI is used (and misused) in legal finance Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Behavior that’s irrational but predictable? We can model that. Idiosyncratic behavior? We avoid it.” - David Perla Modeling helps us decide not only how to price a deal, but how to structure incentives.” - David Perla Everything we do depends on modeling.” - David Perla David Perla gave us a fascinating look into the world of legal finance and how modeling plays a critical role in managing complex litigation risk. His knowledge revealed how finance principles, AI tools, and human judgment all intersect in this unique investment space. From non-recourse funding to Monte Carlo simulations, this episode showcased the depth of modeling required in high-stakes legal decision-making. Follow Dave: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidperla/ Website - https://www.burfordcapital.com/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:12] - Welcome to the episode [03:37] - Defining Legal Finance [04:53] - Typical Legal Finance Timeline [07:56] - Structuring Deals with Non-Recourse Funding [11:17] - Modeling Risk with Monte Carlo Simulations [16:32] - High-Stakes Legal Deal Sizes [21:34] - Predictable vs. Rational Behavior in Modeling [26:02] - Data Transparency in Insurance vs. Legal Finance [32:31] - Tools of the Trade: Excel, Python & More [39:44] - Future of Excel, AI, and Model Confidence [41:32] - Strategic Decision-Making and Wrap-Up…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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The Real Cost of Trump’s Tariffs for Pricing Teams with Karan Sood 42:29

27 days ago42:29

42:29

In this special episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Karan Sood, a global pricing expert with over a decade of experience in revenue management and pricing strategies. Karan shares his knowledge on the impact of tariffs on global trade and pricing models. He talks about the complexities of tariffs, offering advice on how businesses can effectively manage the financial implications and adapt their pricing strategies during these uncertain times. Karan discusses the importance of collaboration across departments and creating flexible models that can quickly adjust to changing market conditions. Karan Sood is a global pricing expert and the Director of Sales Operations with a wealth of experience overseeing revenue management for over $6 billion across a wide range of industries. He is passionate about using pricing as a powerful tool to drive profitability and improve business performance. Karan has worked across industries including automotive, digital marketing, consumer goods, and more, developing pricing strategies that create real business value. Expect to Learn: How tariffs impact different industries and pricing strategies. Why a one-size-fits-all approach to tariffs is flawed and the importance of tailored strategies. The role of cross-functional collaboration in managing tariff impacts. How to create flexible pricing models that can quickly adjust to shifting market conditions. The importance of transparency with customers when adjusting prices due to tariffs. Here are a few quotes from the episode: "Every industry is different; you can’t use the same assumptions for all goods under tariffs." - Karan Sood "Stay calm, don’t make decisions too quickly. Information is constantly changing." - Karan Sood "The key to managing tariffs is creating a flexible pricing model that can adapt quickly to new developments." - Karan Sood Karan Sood shared meaningful strategies for managing the complexities of tariffs in today’s global trade environment. His advice to stay calm, work collaboratively, and prioritize flexibility in pricing models is invaluable for finance professionals looking to navigate the challenges posed by tariffs. By emphasizing the importance of cross-departmental communication and transparency with customers, Karan offers actionable steps that can help businesses succeed in a volatile market. Follow Karan: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/soodkaran/?originalSubdomain=ca Website - https://substack.com/@karansood Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [02:08] - Introduction of Episode [03:05] - Karan’s Journey into Pricing [06:45] - The Global Impact of Tariffs [12:05] - Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work [16:00] - Managing the Impact of Tariffs [20:04] - Building Flexible Pricing Models [23:09] - Transparency with Consumers [28:46] - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Strategy [34:34] - Cross-Department Collaboration [39:06] - Book recommended by Karan…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Startup vs. Corporate Financial Models & How To Build Each For Maximum Strategic Impact - Carl Olson 43:07

5 weeks ago43:07

43:07

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy ) welcomes Carl Olson, a seasoned finance leader with over two decades of experience in FP&A, consulting, and startup finance. Carl discusses the nuances of financial modeling in both startups and large companies, sharing war stories, practical frameworks, and the lessons learned from building models that drive real business decisions. Whether it's simplifying startup forecasts or navigating layers of corporate planning, Carl emphasizes the importance of context, communication, and staying aligned with business partners. Carl Olson is a finance consultant and strategic advisor with more than 20 years of experience in FP&A, startup modeling, and enterprise finance. His background includes roles at Jamba Juice, Yelp, Unity, and several startups. Carl specializes in building operating and strategic models, guiding fundraising efforts, and helping businesses link financial modeling to real-world execution. Expect to Learn: How financial models differ for startups vs. large companies Why listening to business partners is essential for model effectiveness How to test assumptions when historical data is limited The danger of over-automation in modeling What makes a model usable vs. impressive Here are a few quotes from the episode: “ If your sales model shows unrealistic rep productivity, that’s a red flag.” - Carl Olson “Meet your business partners where they are, not where you want them to be.” - Carl Olson “Use industry benchmarks, but know your secret sauce.” - Carl Olson Carl Olson shared honest and practical insights from years of building financial models across startups and large companies. He reminded us that the real value of a model comes from how well it supports decision-making and helps the team move forward. His approach to keeping things simple, clear, and business-focused is something every finance professional can learn from. Follow Carl: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olsoncarl/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:12] - Introduction of Episode [02:02] - Carl’s Worst Modeling Experience [06:43] - Rebuilding a Model from Scratch [10:36] - Startup vs. Corporate Modeling [12:57] - Big Data to Startup Forecasting [15:09] - When Mistakes Go Unnoticed [22:42] - Finding Gaps Through Modeling [29:41] - Using Excel for Personal Life [30:47] - Carl’s Favorite Excel Shortcuts [33:32] - Rapid Fire: Tools, Preferences, and Advice [36:24] - Avoiding the VBA Trap and Growing in Your Career [40:38] - Carl’s Closing Advice for Financial Modelers…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Financial Modeling in Retail, managing Insolvency & How Finance Can Master Cash Flow - Dave Hallwood 48:27

6 weeks ago48:27

48:27

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Dave Hallwood, a finance director and certified financial modeler, for a practical and candid conversation about real-world modeling in the retail industry. From managing day-to-day operations in a fast-growing fashion retail group to navigating insolvency and restructuring, Dave shares the hard-earned lessons that have shaped his approach to modeling, decision-making, and leadership. Dave Hallwood is the Finance Director of a group of independent fashion retailers in the UK. After spending years in retail and hospitality management, Dave transitioned into finance in his 30s, becoming a fellow of ACCA and earning his Certified Financial Modeler (CFM) designation from the Financial Modeling Institute. With a passion for practical financial modeling, Dave has built and managed models for nearly every scenario a small retailer can face, from budgeting and forecasting to store openings, closings, and insolvency planning. Expect to Learn: How to model retail cash flow when weather drives sales The importance of simplicity and storytelling in financial models What it’s like to manage an insolvency and restructure a business Why Dave believes gut instinct still plays a big role in decision-making How Dave uses modeling to support store openings, closures, and growth Practical advice for switching into a finance career later in life Here are a few quotes from the episode: "Financial models help guide the business, but people and relationships still make it work." "The best decision is often a balance between what the model says and what feels right." "No matter how great the numbers look, if your gut says no, listen." Dave Hallwood shares what it’s really like to model for a retail business. From managing cash flow swings to making tough calls during insolvency, he brings a grounded, real-world perspective. Dave reminds us that models should support decisions, not replace them. It’s a must-listen for anyone juggling numbers and navigating uncertainty. Follow Dave: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hallwood-fcca-cfm-87270449/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:31] - Welcome to the episode [03:45] - Inheriting a messy Excel model [06:17] - Why Dave switched careers in his 30s [10:13] - Life as a finance lead in retail [14:16] - Forecasting cash flow in a seasonal business [18:54] - How to model each store differently [26:58] - Lessons from an insolvency and business rescue [32:59] - Why Dave supports the FMI community [40:01] - Horizontal or Vertical Modeling Preferences [42:23] - Gut vs. model: what really drives decisions [44:36] - Closing Reflections with Dave…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Financial Modelers Simplify Spreadsheets to Reduce Errors and Succeed in 2025 with Myles Arnott 49:02

7 weeks ago49:02

49:02

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Myles Arnott, co-founder of Full Stack Modeller and founder of Clarity Consultancy Services. Myles shares his 25+ year journey in Excel, his philosophy of keeping things simple, and how structured design and tools like Power Query have transformed his approach to modeling. He also opens up about taking the FMI Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) exam and co-building a global modeling community. Myles Arnott is a CMA-qualified accountant, Excel trainer, and fractional finance director. He leads Clarity Consultancy Services and co-founded Full Stack Modeller, a platform built to provide finance professionals with a full toolkit of modern Excel and modeling skills. Myles blends operational finance experience with teaching, making complex modeling concepts accessible through real-world insights and practice. Expect to Learn: The power of simplicity in model design How to effectively prepare for the AFM exam Best practices for managing data flow in Excel Why Power Query is one of Excel’s most powerful tools How Full Stack Modeler is helping professionals level up in finance The value of designing with clarity and reviewing with confidence Myles’s journey from complex automation to clean, intuitive spreadsheets Here are a few quotes from the episode: Spreadsheet risk skyrockets when models are messy and undocumented.”- Myles Arnott “If your data flows are poor, your insights will be too.”- Myles Arnott “Power Query changed everything for how we manage data in Excel.”- Myles Arnott In this episode, Myles Arnott shares how clarity, consistency, and structure create better financial models. He emphasizes the importance of design thinking, simplifying complexity, and continuously developing your skills. Whether you're preparing for the AFM or just want to clean up your modeling, Myles’s advice will guide you toward modeling excellence. Follow Myles: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mylesarnott/ Website - https://www.fullstackmodeller.com/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:39] - Episode Introduction [02:49] - Worst Financial Model Mistakes [07:55] - Leadership and AFM [13:26] - Balancing Under Exam Pressure [19:17] - Full Stack Origins [23:01] - MVP Antics and Office Fun [27:04] - Simplifying Systems and Processes [31:13] - Power Query Tips [36:37] - Career Lessons Learned [46:09] - Advice to Aspiring Modelers…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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How Excel Transformed a Beginner into a 9 Million Follower Educator with Emma Chieppor 39:48

8 weeks ago39:48

39:48

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Emma Chieppor, founder of Excel Dictionary, a social media-driven Excel education platform with over 9 million followers. Emma shares her journey from being an actuary to becoming one of the most influential Excel educators online. She discusses the power of Excel, the challenges of running a business, and how short-form content transformed Excel learning for millions. Emma Chieppor started her career as an actuary before launching Excel Dictionary, a platform dedicated to providing quick and practical Excel tips. Through social media, Emma has built a massive following by sharing 30-second Excel tutorials. Her expertise has helped professionals worldwide enhance their Excel skills efficiently. Expect to Learn: How Emma transitioned from actuary to Excel influencer The challenges of learning Excel while starting a corporate job during COVID Why pivot tables in financial models can be a nightmare How Emma grew her social media following to over 9 million in less than a year The most underrated Excel shortcuts that can save hours of work Here are a few quotes from the episode: “ I had never really used Excel before my first job, so I had to teach myself from scratch .” There’s no secret formula for social media. Just post good content and stay consistent.” “If you’re learning Excel, repetition and practice are key.” In this episode, Emma Chieppor shared her journey from actuary to Excel influencer, emphasizing consistency, hands on learning, and creativity in Excel. She highlighted the power of shortcuts, automation, and social media in making Excel more accessible. Excel is more than a tool; it is a platform for innovation and efficiency. Keep learning, stay curious, and master the skills that set you apart! Follow Emma Chieppor : LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-chieppor-excel-dictionary-261444235/ Website - https://excel-dictionary.com/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:30] - Introduction to the episode [03:09] - Worst Financial Model Mistakes – Avoiding Pivot Tables [06:43] - Emma’s Background from an Actuary to an Excel Star [09:03] - How COVID Led to the Creation of Excel Dictionary [13:04] - Emma’s Journey to One Million Plus Followers [17:49] - The Importance of Consistency in Content Creation [28:23] - Rapid-Fire Excel Questions on Excel Features…

Financial Modeler's Corner

1
Why Law Firm Revenue & Cash Flow Forecasting Is a Nightmare (and How to Solve It) with Sean Mooney 40:09

9 weeks ago40:09

40:09

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner , host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy ) welcomes Sean Mooney, a senior financial consultant specializing in automated financial modeling for professional services. Sean shares his journey from accounting to financial modeling, the challenges of revenue forecasting for law firms, and the power of Excel automation. Sean Mooney is the founder of SJ Finance, a consultancy specializing in financial modeling automation for professional services firms. With 12+ years of executive finance experience in the UK and Australia, Sean has built financial models that have helped businesses secure millions in funding. He is an expert in Power Query, Excel automation, and M&A financial modeling, helping companies save up to 75% of reporting time through smart automation. Expect to Learn: How Sean transitioned from accounting to financial modeling The role of Power Query in automating financial modeling processes Key revenue forecasting challenges in law firms and service businesses Why scenario planning is critical for financial models How financial modeling influences business strategy and decision-making Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Law firms have long cash cycles, so tracking work-in-progress (WIP) is absolutely critical.” “Debt financing can sometimes be a better alternative to private equity, but many business owners don’t realize that.” “The biggest risk in a financial model? A black hole of stagnant WIP that never turns into revenue.” In this episode, Sean Mooney shared his expertise on how automation, Power Query, and strong forecasting techniques can transform financial models from static spreadsheets into dynamic decision-making tools. He advises financial modelers to stress-test their models, embrace automation, and always keep learning. Follow Sean: LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-mooney-sjf Company - https://sjfinance.co.uk/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:24] Introduction to the Episode [06:55] Sean’s Passion for Financial Modeling [09:45] Guiding Clients on Financial Decisions [15:30] Revenue Forecasting for Law Firms [24:38] The Potential of Power Query [30:04] Sean’s Favorite Excel Shortcuts & Tips [31:39] Excel Nerd Moment [34:18] Rapid-Fire Questions [37:53] Final Advice for Financial Modelers…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Building Better Biotech Financial Models and Managing Valuation Risk with Frank David 50:50

10 weeks ago50:50

50:50

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner , host Paul Barnhurst (aka the FP&A Guy) sits down with Frank David, an expert at the intersection of corporate strategy, clinical medicine, and biotech research. They discuss the unique challenges of financial modeling in the biopharma industry, the importance of understanding patient populations, and how drug development strategy influences financial decision-making. Frank David is the Founder and Managing Director of Pharmagellan, a consulting firm specializing in biotech financial modeling and valuation. With a background as a physician scientist, Frank has extensive experience advising biopharma teams and investors. He also teaches at Tufts University and is the lead author of The Pharmagellan Guide to Biotech Forecasting and Valuation and The Pharmagellan Guide to Analyzing Biotech Clinical Trials . Expect to Learn: The unique challenges of financial modeling in biotech and pharma. Why "small percent of a big market" is a flawed valuation approach. How patient segmentation impacts drug development strategy. The importance of risk-adjusted modeling and scenario planning. How financial modeling supports strategic decision-making in biotech investments. Here are a few quotes from the episode: "Most early-stage biotech entrepreneurs don’t realize they need to think about who their patients actually are and what alternative treatments exist." "In drug development, forecasting is about managing uncertainty, not predicting exact numbers." "The clinical strategy and commercial strategy in biotech are so intertwined that modeling them separately can be misleading." This episode explored the complexities of biotech financial modeling. Frank shared why traditional financial modeling approaches don’t always work in the biotech industry and how strategic decision-making relies heavily on understanding patient needs, regulatory pathways, and risk assessment. Follow Frank: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-s-david/ Company - https://www.pharmagellan.com/ Email - frank@pharmagellan.com Book - https://a.co/d/gf8SwzI Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:14] - Introduction to the Episode [02:02] - Meet Frank David [04:17] - Financial Modeling Horror Story [09:38] - Understanding Biotech Financial Models [13:57] - Biotech Forecasting and Valuation [18:15] - Where to Start When Analyzing a Drug Project [24:52] - Risk-Adjusted Modeling in Biotech [32:01] - Advice for Modelers in Biotech [40:56] - Fun & Rapid-Fire Questions [49:32] - How to Connect with Frank David…

Financial Modeler's Corner

1
Financial Modeling Frameworks to Build Error-Free Models In Excel Using SIMPLE Method 35:51

11 weeks ago35:51

35:51

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner , host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Babatope Agbeyo, a corporate trainer with extensive experience in financial modeling, Excel, and valuation. Babatope shares about his "SIMPLE" modeling framework, experiences in financial advisory at Deloitte, and lessons from training over 3,000 professionals globally. He also discusses his passion for keeping financial models structured, logical, and error-free. Babatope Agbeyo is a financial modeling expert and corporate trainer who has worked across multiple industries, including telecom, manufacturing, oil & gas, and tech. With experience at Deloitte and D Brown Consulting, he has reviewed and audited countless financial models, refining his approach through his "SIMPLE" modeling framework. Babatope is a certified AFM and FMVA and is passionate about making financial modeling more structured and effective. Expect to Learn: The importance of keeping financial models simple and structured Babatope’s SIMPLE modeling framework and how it improves modeling efficiency Common financial modeling mistakes and how to avoid them How to effectively audit financial models using the PAINS approach The best industries for financial modeling and which ones are the most challenging Here are a few quotes from the episode: "A great financial model should be modular, meaning each calculation block is distinct and easy to read." "Most errors I find in financial models come from poor calculations and linking mistakes." "A well-structured financial model should be easy to read, navigate, and troubleshoot." Financial modeling isn't just about crunching numbers, it's about telling a story with data, making informed decisions, and ensuring accuracy at every step. Babatope’s SIMPLE framework and PAINS approach remind us that clarity and structure are just as important as technical skill. If you’ve ever struggled with a model that just wouldn’t balance, or spent hours troubleshooting an error, this episode is a must-listen. Follow Babatope: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/babatopesamuelagbeyo/ Email - babatopesamuelagbeyo@gmail.com Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:18] Introduction to the Episode [03:39] Financial Modeling Horror Story [05:28] Lessons from Working with David Brown [07:15] What It’s Like Working at Deloitte [09:48] The SIMPLE Framework [14:06] The Art of Teaching Financial Modeling [16:16] Preparing for the AFM Exam [21:16] The PAINS Approach to Auditing Models [24:20] Excel Shortcuts & Unique Modeling Use Cases [26:08] Biggest Career Lesson [28:58] Rapid-Fire Questions [33:38] Final Advice [34:46] Where to Connect with Babatope…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Financial Modeling Insights for Startups Seeking Venture Capital with Andres Klaric 44:26

12 weeks ago44:26

44:26

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner , host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Andres Klaric, the co-founder and co-CEO of Fuse. In their conversation, Andres discusses common financial modeling mistakes, how startup models differ from corporate M&A models, and what investors truly look for when evaluating projections. He also shares firsthand experiences on navigating the fundraising process, balancing work ethic with personal life, and the strategic approach to scaling a company. Andres Klaric is the co-founder and co-CEO of Fuse , a next-generation loan origination system designed to streamline lending for financial institutions through self-serve customization, a low-code API builder, and personalized agent portfolios. Andres shares his journey from investment banking and private equity to launching a fintech startup that’s reshaping loan origination. He provides insights into financial modeling for startups, securing venture capital, and the critical lessons he’s learned from Wall Street. Expect to Learn: The biggest mistakes and horror stories in financial modeling. How startup financial models differ from corporate M&A models. The key factors venture capitalists look for in startup projections. Lessons from private equity and investment banking that shaped Andres as a CEO. The art of balancing complexity and simplicity in financial modeling. Here are a few quotes from the episode: “The biggest mistake in startup modeling? Overcomplicating things when simple assumptions will do.” “Modeling for investors and modeling for internal operations are two completely different things.” “A bad financial model won’t kill your startup, but a bad go-to-market strategy will.” This episode with Andres Klaric was packed with insights on financial modeling, fundraising, and the lessons learned from both Wall Street and the startup world. From the importance of keeping financial models simple to navigating investor expectations, Andres provided a masterclass on startup finance and strategic thinking. Hard work, strategy, and the ability to adapt will always outweigh an over-engineered spreadsheet. Follow Andres: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andresklaric/ Company: https://www.fusefinance.com/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [02:59] - Worst Financial Model Horror Stories [08:57] - The Journey to Founding Fuse [11:53] - Lessons from Wall Street [18:07] - Financial Modeling for Startups [23:05] - How VCs Evaluate Startup Models [25:06] - Fundraising Strategies & Finding the Right Investors [32:07] - Rapid-Fire Financial Modeling Q&A [42:34] - Final Advice & Closing Thoughts…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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The Role Of Financial Modeling In Investing With Author Of "Why Does The Stock Market Go Up?" Brian Feroldi 44:11

13 weeks ago44:11

44:11

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner , host Paul Barnhurst sits down with financial educator and author Brian Feroldi. They discuss the fundamentals of stock investing, financial modeling, and how to identify high-quality companies. Brian shares insights from his investing journey, his investing checklist, and his thoughts on valuation, competitive advantages, and the role of financial models in investment decisions. Brian Feroldi is a financial educator, investor, and author dedicated to demystifying the stock market. With nearly two decades of investing experience, Brian has written over 3,000 articles on stocks, personal finance, and investing. His best-selling book “ Why Does the Stock Market Go Up? ” explains market fundamentals in simple terms. Through his YouTube channel, social media presence, and educational content, Brian helps investors make smarter decisions by focusing on business quality, valuation, and long-term investing strategies. Expect to Learn: Why financial models depend on good assumptions and how they can be manipulated The biggest mistakes investors make and how to avoid them How Brian analyzes financial statements and what metrics he prioritizes The five key types of competitive advantages (EMOTs) in business How to build an investing checklist to guide stock selection Here are a few quotes from the episode: “When I invest, I’m looking for businesses that can outperform even the most bullish expectations.” “Understanding where a company is in its business lifecycle is critical to valuation.” “The biggest mistake people make is using the wrong valuation model for the wrong type of company.” Brian’s emphasis on having a structured investing checklist, focusing on competitive advantages, and choosing the right valuation method for the right stage of a company’s lifecycle highlights the importance of strategy over speculation. If you're looking to improve your investing game, start by educating yourself, refining your process, and remembering that patience often wins the race. Follow Brian: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianferoldi/ Website - https://www.brianferoldi.com/ Email - brian@brianferoldi.com YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/brianferoldiyt Book - https://a.co/d/3gS5JZL Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:02] - Introduction to Guest Brian Feroldi [06:35] - Brian’s Investing Journey and Early Mistakes [10:19] - Brian’s Checklist for Evaluating Companies [15:41] - The Financial Statement Analysis [20:24] - Competitive Advantages (EMOTs) [29:50] - Advice to Begin Investing in the Market [31:20] - Common Investor Mistakes [33:51] - Valuation Models & Growth Cycles [41:36] - Final Advice & Book Recommendations [42:55] - Where to Find Brian…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Discover How Financial Modelers Are Using Copilot and ChatGPT with Global Expert Kenny Whitelaw-Jones 45:41

14 weeks ago45:41

45:41

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner , host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy , looks into the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on financial modeling. The discussion explores how AI is reshaping the industry, the challenges and opportunities it brings, and what financial modelers can expect in the coming years. Kenny Whitelaw-Jones who is the founding partner at Gridlines joins the show. As a leading expert in project finance modeling, Kenny has played a pivotal role in shaping financial modeling standards globally. With over a decade of experience training blue-chip clients and developing complex models, he brings invaluable insights into how AI is poised to revolutionize financial modeling. Expect to Learn: How AI is expected to significantly impact financial modeling, with Kenny's recent industry survey. The current limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT in financial modeling and where they excel. How project finance modeling differs from other types of financial modeling, and why Kenny finds it exciting. The importance of soft skills and communication in the evolving role of financial modelers. The future skills financial modelers will need to stay ahead in an AI-driven world. Here are a few quotes from the episode: "In the future, the routine tasks will be automated, and modelers will focus more on strategic, value-adding activities." "Being a good modeler isn’t just about Excel skills. It’s about interpreting data and communicating results effectively." "The change AI brings is inevitable because as soon as we can imagine it, someone will figure out how to make it happen." As AI continues to evolve, it's clear that financial modeling is on the brink of a major transformation. Kenny Whitelaw-Jones shared not just the technical impacts we can expect from AI, but also how the role of financial modelers will shift toward strategic thinking, business interpretation, and effective communication. While tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are making waves, it’s the human element that will remain irreplaceable. Follow Kenny: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennywhitelawjones/ Website - https://www.gridlines.com/ Email - kenny@gridlines.com Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [01:46] – Meet Kenny Whitelaw-Jones [02:35] – The Worst Financial Model Encountered [05:43] – Why Project Finance and Renewables? [10:04] – Survey for AI in Financial Modeling [14:58] – ChatGPT vs. Copilot [18:57] – Excel Innovations & the Future of Modeling [22:34] – The Future of Financial Modeling with AI [26:50] – Soft Skills & the Evolving Role of Financial Modelers [33:51] – Rapid-Fire Round [40:51] – Life Beyond Financial Modeling [43:48] – Final Thoughts & How to Connect with Kenny…

Financial Modeler's Corner

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Named Ranges and External Links Fixes for Finance Professionals to Build Accurate Models - Joel Steendam 51:02

15 weeks ago51:02